Gombe – Gov. Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe State has enjoined the 1, 987 intending pilgrims of the state to be good ambassadors and pray for the state and the county while in Saudi Arabia.
Dankwambo, who was represented by Mr Chirles Iliya, the Deputy Governor, made this call during the farewell ceremony for 2016 intending pilgrims in Gombe on Sunday.
He advised them to abide by all the rules and regulations for a successful and acceptable hajj by God.
“I urge you to be worthy ambassadors of Gombe State and our great country Nigeria by exhibiting high sense of responsibility and dedication to the Almighty Allah.
“You should pray for peace, unity, and prosperity of Gombe state in particular and the county in general.
“I urge you not to engage in rioting, demonstration or disobedience or disregard to constituted authorities, ” he said.
Dankwambo also warned them to desist from engaging in peddling drugs, Kola nuts and other related offences which carry severe penalty.
He also charged the officials to discharge their duties effectively as most of the pilgrims were first timers who need assistance.
According to him, the state had secured befitting accommodation with good facilities for them in Mecca close to the Holy Mosque.
“I wish to state clearly that Government had made adequate arrangements through the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to ensure your comfort, health and welfare while in Saudi Arabia.
“In order to ensure good health, Government has provided medical personnel to be included in the National Medical Team to avail you with adequate medical care,” he said.
Alhaji Sale Muhammad, Board Chairman, called on the pilgrims to be patience at all the times and cooperate with the officials for the success of the exercise.
He advised them to pray for themselves, state, North- East and the country at large, especially on the economic challenges facing the country.
In his remarks the Amirul-Hajj, Alhaji Nasiru Nono, advised the pilgrims to abide by laws of Saudi Arabia, and to cooperate with the officials for a successful Hajj operation.
He appreciated the efforts of the National Hajj Commission for its cooperation and consideration for the state in the increase of Hajj slots for the state.
Nono assured that the team would discharge their responsibilities as expected toward a successful and accepted Hajj.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that, the number of pilgrims had increased from 1, 951, who perform last year hajj to 1, 987 for 2016 Hajj and the first batch were to be transported on Monday. (NAN)